Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, Simi Valley, CA.
Saga Nishiki Mr. Fuji Purse
Artifact ID1986.00508.01
Object Type
Purse
Gifter
Shunichi Suzuki
Maker
Tomoyo Ijima
(Japan)
Date
20th Century
Medium
Fabric (saga nishiki), Metal
Dimensions6 × 8 1/2 in. (15.2 × 21.6 cm)
Physical DescriptionA gold Saga Nishiki brocade purse with a raised landscape design of a temple, hills, and trees with Mt. Fuji in the background in muted green, yellow, brown, and silver on the front. The back has a single hill with three trees. There is gold filigree along the top. The bag has a gold fabric strap and gold metal fixtures.Historical NoteThe purse was given through the American Embassy in Tokyo during the 1986 Economic Summit.
Saga Nishiki is a handwoven Japanese brocade fabric that uses a dyed silk weft and warp made from Japanese rice paper that is gilded or lacquered. Saga Nishiki dates back to the end of Japan’s Edo period (1603-1867). Initially called Kashima Nishiki, the technique is known as Saga Nishiki in 1910 when it was exhibited it at the Japan-England Exposition in London, England, UK. Since only a few inches can be produced in a day, it is mostly used on accessories such as shoes, bags, and belts.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThe item was a gift from a foreign official to First Lady Nancy Reagan during the Reagan administration. It was received through the Executive Office of the President Office of Correspondence and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January, 1989 for deposit with the Reagan Presidential Library.
National Archives Catalog CollectionRecords of the White House Gift Unit (Reagan Administration) (National Archives Identifier 6816362) and
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts from Foreign Officials (National Archives Identifier 6816364)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
Country/CultureJapanPlace MadeJapanPlace DepictedJapanIn Collection(s)